Portret van een man 1865 - 1890

Wegner & Mottu created this small portrait of a man using photography, a relatively new medium at the time. Photography's rise in popularity had a profound effect on the art world, particularly portraiture. The rise of the middle class during the Industrial Revolution created a demand for images, leading to the establishment of commercial photography studios. This portrait, with its careful composition and focus on the subject's respectability, reflects the values of the emerging bourgeoisie. The man's attire and demeanor communicate a sense of self-assurance and success, characteristic of the era's emphasis on individual achievement. Understanding photography's historical context requires us to consider the social and economic forces that shaped its development. Researching the history of photography studios, portraiture conventions, and the cultural values of the time can provide deeper insights into the meaning and significance of this seemingly simple image.